ALL IMAGES COURTESY OF MONTBLANC

WHEN CHRISTMAS COMES around, you can go one of two ways: either you jump online and panic buy, or you take a deep breath, make a list of those you’re buying for and think about their unique interests, passions and needs. In our experience, the extra minute it takes to pause and reflect is the difference between giving a gift that lasts a season, and a gift that lasts forever. And at a time when it feels like life is moving faster than ever, it’s the most enduring gifts that speak volumes.

At Montblanc, that art of choosing a thoughtful gift isn’t just made easy; it’s made enjoyable. What began as a maker of high-end writing instruments, launching in Germany in 1906, Montblanc has grown into one of the world’s most exciting luxury brands. Today, it specialises in carefully crafted leather goods, Swiss watches, fragrances and more. With such a compelling range of products, it’s one of our favourite destinations to shop at no matter the time of year. But for those who appreciate the value of a thoughtful gift, it’s hard to go past the brand’s selection come December. 

From writers to travellers, watch lovers and audiophiles, at Montblanc, there’s something for everyone this Christmas. Here, the editors of Esquire select the gifts we’ll be giving to loved ones come Christmas Day. 


For the tastemaker

What do you give the stylish guy who has everything? This question left us scratching our heads, until we caught the scent of Montblanc’s Explorer Platinum fragrance. Embodying the energetic freshness of violet leaf, the aroma of clary sage and the warmth of cedarwood, it is one of those enigmatic fragrances you smell once, and never forget. 

For the traveller

Titled ‘Extreme 3.0’, Montblanc’s latest range of leather goods combines innovation with style. Inspired by the world of climbing, the collection’s backpack offers a distinctly modern take on the tried-and-trusted staple; its striking geometric pattern is both subtle and directional, while its sporty, spacious silhouette ticks all of our practicality boxes. If there’s someone in your life that’s constantly moving from place to place, this is the gift for them. 

For the writer

Any wordsmith will tell you: when it comes to writing instruments, there’s no beating Montblanc. For the aspiring novelist, screenwriter or dedicated diary-keeper, the brand’s ballpoint pens offer a puristic design combined with a high simplicity of use, while its pearly colour will elevate the status of any workspace. We’ll be giving the PIX Ballpoint Pen, which is named after the brand’s own historic trademark and inspired by the Bauhaus architecture movement. 

For the fearless explorer

Designed with alpinists in mind, Montblanc’s 1858 Geosphere Chronograph 0 Oxygen – The 8000 Limited Edition pushes the boundaries of modern watchmaking in every way. It’s housed in a 44mm titanium case that’s totally devoid of oxygen, which means no fogging up at high altitude, which allows the movement to last longer with greater precision. Only 290 pieces were made, which means this isn’t just a thoughtful gift—it’s an heirloom. 

For the music lover

Not to be confused with your regular headphones, Montblanc’s MB 01 Over-Ear Headphones were designed to meet their discerning clients’ growing expectations for better sound quality, haptic experience and longer-lasting performance. As a result, they’re some of the best active noise cancelling headphones on the market today. Perfect for the person who likes tuning into a playlist on the go, before unwinding in peace to a favourite record at home. 


Related:

With Explorer Platinum, Montblanc captures the spirit of adventure

Esquire’s ultimate 2023 Christmas gift guide